text; filtered away from Newton Geiszler

[mathemagier]

Hero
[heer-oh]

noun, plural heroes;

1. a person of distinguished courage or ability, admired for their brave deeds and noble qualities.
2. a person who, in the opinion of others, has heroic qualities or has performed a heroic act and is regarded as a model or ideal.

There are a great many heroic types among the imPort population, and this is probably a rather tired question, but indulge my curiosity if you would.

What is it the elevates a person from simply well-intentioned, to someone worthy of such a distinguished title?

Deeds? Bravery? Strength? Capability? Righteousness? Nobility? All of the above, or some combination thereof?

Or is it simply that there's one person in the world that believes it?

Comments

[youbastard]

I think they definitely are worthy. what about you? what's your assessment of what makes or doesn't make a hero?

[mathemagier]

I didn't have a very firm stance on it when I posed the query, but I think someone that inspires is perhaps the most apt, if not infallible definition that I've heard. It encompasses a great deal, but still speaks of the greatness of someone that could inspire others to greater heights- whether that's through combat or scientific pursuits.

[youbastard]

that actually sounds like the best definition I've heard. There's actually a lot of people I know that fit that description. Inspiring others can be hard to do and it takes a special kind of person to be able to.

[mathemagier]

Yes, it certainly does. But occasionally it seems, even small gestures can be inspiring.